A friend shared her intention to stay as far away from a healthcare provider as possible. Perhaps this is a fear rather than an intention. In the past, she has been anxious about going to the doctor, a story I often hear. The fear escalated to the level of panic attacks when several loved ones died this year. She came to associate her pain and grief with hospitals and health care providers’. The thought of an urgent care clinic for a sinus infection strikes terror in her heart. She cannot imagine seeing a healthcare provider on a routine basis. If she does manage to see someone, her blood pressure sky rockets. She feels trapped. Her fear is blocking her off from support and care around her health.

Unfortunately, this scenario is all too common in health care. People try many things to make changes and live a healthier life. They suffer disappointment when they are unsuccessful. Where to start? Frustrated, hopeless, afraid. They long to have their story heard but the doctor’s office has become a place of anxiety. Fifteen minutes visits, only one problem allowed, little time for questions. Patients are frustrated. Healthcare providers are frustrated. No safe space for my friend to explore the panic. No safe space to heal.

Finding a healthcare provider who is willing and to explore a unique, personal definition of health is a challenge. A provider who spends time with patients. Someone who listens and helps articulate an intention to live a healthier life. A relationship, a partnership, a collaboration in exploring what healthier looks like. An intention spoken out loud with a supportive partner is powerful and life changing. It sets up loving, safe accountability. Think about an intention, a purpose, an aim that you have today for your health. Share it with someone you trust. Experience healing.